Finasteride, commonly known by the brand name Propecia®, is a medication used to treat male pattern baldness. If you or someone you know has been prescribed this drug for hair loss, it’s important to understand how it works, its benefits, potential side effects, and how to use it properly.

Finasteride is a medication classified as a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor. Originally developed to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), an enlarged prostate, it was later found effective in treating male pattern hair loss.

Finasteride works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is associated with male pattern baldness because it causes hair follicles to shrink, leading to thinner hair and, eventually, hair loss. By reducing DHT levels, Finasteride can slow hair loss and may even lead to regrowth in some men.

Finasteride is typically prescribed as a 1 mg tablet taken orally once a day, with or without food. Consistency is key, so try to take it at the same time each day.

While Finasteride is generally well tolerated, some men may experience side effects, including:

Finasteride is intended for use by men only. Women and children should not handle Finasteride tablets, especially if they are crushed or broken, because the medication can be absorbed through the skin. Exposure during pregnancy may cause birth defects.

Before starting Finasteride, inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies, liver disease, prostate cancer, or bladder muscle disorders.

Finasteride is a proven treatment for male pattern baldness that can help slow hair loss and potentially promote new hair growth. Like any medication, it must be taken correctly and consistently to see results.

Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns. Remember, everyone responds differently to treatment, so maintain realistic expectations and understand that while Finasteride can help slow hair loss, it is not a complete cure for baldness.